Field game

ABSTRACT

Field games comprise a playing field having a defined area at only one end of the playing field, and a remaining area. The defined area is configured to accommodate a player having possession of a ball therein, and may be configured to prevent entry from one or more direction, or may be configured to permit access from all sides. The field game may be played by two teams of players, initially positioned at different locations of the playing field, where one team has the objective of putting one or more of its players in the defined area with possession of one or more balls and thereby scoring, and where the other team has the objective of trying to prevent the opposite team from its objective of scoring. Teams switch objectives after the team in possession scores with its balls and/or loses possession of its balls, and play is quickly resumed.

FIELD

A competitive game or sport played by opposing groups of people or teamson a playing field having an objective of being high energy, fast-paced,full contact, and high scoring.

BACKGROUND

Field games such as football, rugby, dodgeball and others are known inthe art and involve some type of sporting field or court on which theyare played. Such sports involve the use of competing teams or anobjective that places one player against one or more other player forpurposes of scoring or achieving one or more points through the use ofsome sort of ball or the like that is moved on the field according tocertain rules of play, or (in the case of dodgeball) through the use ofa ball that is hurled at an opponent aimed at striking the opponent.

While such field games have a certain level of competitiveness andaction, depending on particular factors such as the particular teamsthat are playing against one another and/or the individuals on suchteams, the level of competitiveness and/or action may be lacking. Assuch, the level of entertainment or excitement conveyed to fans andspectators who follow and watch such games may also be reduced, in whichcase the desire to remain engaged as a fan and/or spectator may wane.Also, such the rules of such field games have changed over the years totemper or tame the level of aggressive game play or interaction betweenopponents, which has also had an effect of reducing the excitement andentertainment level that the game provides to fans and/or spectatorswatching the game.

It is, therefore, desired that a field game be developed in manner thatpromotes high-energy, fast-paced, and aggressive game play to therebyincrease the excitement of both playing the game and watching the game.It is further desired, the game encourage and accommodate a variety ofplayer skills that may be used during game play to thereby broaden thescope of eligible players, and again add to the excitement of play forthe players and for the spectators watching the game.

SUMMARY

Field games as disclosed herein are developed in a manner designed topromote high-energy, fast-paced, and aggressive game play to therebyincrease the excitement of both playing the game and watching the game.In an example embodiment, a field game as disclose herein comprises aplaying field that includes a defined area or region at only one end ofthe playing field and a remaining area away from the defined area. In anexample, the playing field may have a shape, including and not limitedto one, that is rectangular, oval, round, square, or the like. In anexample, the defined area is configured to accommodate a player havingpossession of a ball therein. In an example, the defined area comprisesan enclosure that prevents entry into the defined area from at least onedirection of the playing field. In an example, the defined area may beaccessible from all sides on the playing field. In an example, thedefined area may be configured, as viewed downwardly from an elevationabove the playing field, having a shape including and not limited torectangular, round, square, triangular, oval, and the like.

The field game includes a first team of players positioned along oneportion of the playing field and a second team of players positionedalong another portion of the playing field. During game play, the firstteam of players operates to try to prevent a second team of playershaving possession of a ball to place a second team player in possessionof the ball inside of the defined area to thereby score during gameplay. In an example, a player scores by running the ball into thedefined area, or catching a ball in the defined area that is thrown orkicked to them from outside the defined area. In an example, the ballmay be round and comprises an outside surface having a plurality ofsurface features configured to better enable one to grasp or throw theball during game play. In an example embodiment, upon commencement ofthe field game there are one or more balls placed into play and inpossession by the second team. In an example, upon commencement of thefield game, the first team of players is positioned on a first side ofthe playing field including the defined area, and the second team ofplayers is positioned on a second side of the field opposite the firstside.

In an example, field games as disclosed herein may be played by placinga first team of players at a first end of a playing field, and placing asecond team of players at a second end of the playing field, wherein thesecond end of the playing field includes the defined area. In anexample, during game play the first team of players is in possession ofone or more balls with the objective of moving the one or more balls tothe second end of the playing field to place a player from the firstteam in possession with one of the balls into the defined area. In anexample, the second team is initially in possession of the one or moreballs and transfers the one or more balls to the first team to begingame play. In such example, the second team moves towards the first endof the field to engage the second team after initiating transfer of theone or more balls. In an example, the field game may be played usingapproximately three balls in the possession of the first team. Duringsuch game play the second team of players engages the first team withthe objective of preventing the first team from placing a player fromthe first team in possession with one of the balls into the definedarea.

In an example, during game play the first team moves the one or moreballs in any manner between members of the first team, and moves the oneor more balls in any direction on the field, and wherein possession ofany of the one or more balls by the first team is lost when a member ofthe first team fails to maintain control of such any of the one or moreballs. In an example, once all of the one or more balls in play areeither lost control of by the first team and/or placed in the definedarea by the first team, the first and second teams of players switchsides on the playing field and the game starts again with the secondteam of players having the objective of placing one or more second teamplayers having possession of the one or more balls into the defined areaand the first team of players having the objective of preventing thesecond team of players from placing one or more second team playershaving possession of the one or more balls into the defined area.

In an example, game play continues with the first and second teamsswitching sides one or more times after losing possession of the one ormore balls and/or placing the one or more balls in the defined area fora defined period of time. In an example, after the defined period oftime, a winning team of the first team of players and the second team ofplayers is decided based on a highest score that is associated with atotal number of balls placed in the defined area by the first team ofplayers and second team of players. In an example, each ball placed inthe defined area counts as one point. In an example, there are twodefined periods of time with a time break in between the two definedperiods. The first defined period begins with the start of game play,and wherein for the second defined period the second team of players isinitially positioned at the first end of the field with the objective ofmoving the one or more balls to the second end of the field and placingone or more second team players having possession of the one or moreballs in the defined area, and the first team of players are initiallypositioned at the second end of the field with the objective ofpreventing the second team from placing one or more second team playershaving possession of the one or more balls in the defined area.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

These and other features and advantages of field games as disclosedherein will be appreciated as the same becomes better understood byreference to the following detailed description when considered inconnection with the accompanying drawings wherein:

FIG. 1 is a schematic view of an example playing field for a field gameas disclosed herein;

FIG. 2 is a schematic view of another example playing field for a fieldgame as disclosed herein;

FIG. 3 is a schematic view of another example playing field for a fieldgame as disclosed herein;

FIG. 4 is a schematic view of another example playing field for a fieldgame as disclosed herein;

FIG. 5 is a schematic view of an example ball for use in playing a fieldgame as disclosed herein;

FIGS. 6A to 6D are schematic views of example defined regions used withexample playing fields for a field game as disclosed herein;

FIGS. 7A to 7D are schematic views of example defined regions used withexample playing fields for a field game as disclosed herein;

FIGS. 8A to 8C are schematic views of example defined regions used withexample playing fields for a field game as disclosed herein; and

FIGS. 9A to 9F are schematic views of example elements that may be usedto designate the defined region and/or be used to designate areas ofexample playing fields for a field game as disclosed herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

A field game as disclosed herein comprises a playing field orbattlefield on which the field game is played by two or more teams ofplayers or opponents. The playing field is configured having a definedarea or pill box located at a desired position on the playing field,e.g., in an end zone location or the like, for accommodating placementof one or more balls therein during game play. The field game is playedaccording to instructions, and along with the configuration of theplaying field, equipment used on the playing field and/or by the teamsof players, provides a fast-paced, high-scoring, full-contact fieldsport that is exciting to play and watch.

The field game playing field may be configured for game play outdoors orindoors, and the surface of the playing field may be formed from grass,artificial grass, or any other material conducive to game play. In anexample, the playing field surface is made from grass and the field gameis played outdoors. The playing field may be configured having a roundshape, an oval shape, a rectangular shape, a square shape, or any othershape conducive to game play.

A feature of the playing field is that it includes at least one definedarea for purposes of accommodating placement of one or more ballstherein during game play. In an example, the playing field may includemore than one defined area. The placement position of the one or moredefined areas on the playing field may vary. For example, the one ormore defined area may be placed at or adjacent one or more ends of theplaying field, it may be placed adjacent to or at a central location ofthe playing field, or may be placed at any other location. In aparticular example, the playing field includes only a single definedarea that is placed adjacent one of the ends of the playing field.

FIG. 1 illustrates an example playing field 10 for playing the fieldgame as disclosed herein. In this example, the playing field 10 is inthe form of a circle or is circular in shape having a determineddiameter. In an example, the diameter of the playing field is sized toaccommodate game play in a manner that provides competitive fast-pacedplay. In an example, the diameter may be greater than about 30 yards, befrom about 40 to 200 yards, or be from about 50 to 120 yards. In anexample, the diameter of the playing field is approximately 80 yards.The playing field 10 may have a surface 14 that is formed from grass orany one of the other materials described above conducive to game play.

The playing field includes a single defined area 16 located thereon. Inan example, the defined area 16 is positioned in an end zone of theplaying field that is located adjacent an end 17 of the playing field 10such that there is an area 18 between the end 17 of the playing fieldand the defined area 16 for game play, e.g., to permit scoring from 360degrees. Alternatively, the defined area may be placed at the end of theplaying field and configured to provide no room for game play behind thedefined area. In an example, the defined area 16 may be configuredhaving a circular shape, an oval shape, a rectangular shape, a squareshape, a triangular shape, or any other shape conducive to game play. Inan example, the defined area 16 is shaped having a horizontalconfiguration. In an example, the defined area is configured in a mannerthat enables one to visually or otherwise identify when one or moreballs is placed therein during game play. The defined area 16 may be anarea of the playing field that is at the same level as the remainingarea of the playing field, or alternative may be recessed an amount(e.g., a slight amount) below the remaining surface of the playingfield, or may be raised an amount (e.g., a slight amount) above theremaining surface of the playing field. In an example, the defined areais level with the remaining surface of the playing field. The definedarea 16 may be configured to accommodate passage of a ball therein froma single side, from two sides, from three sides, or from all sidesdepending on the placement of the defined area and/or the constructionof the defined area. In example embodiments, the defined area may beidentified or defined on the playing field by markings on the surface ofthe playing field, by marking elements extending from the playing field,or by a type of enclosure or the like that may or may not includenetting or other type of construction (e.g., to form closed sides ifdesired) extending upwardly from the playing field. Further features ofthe defined area are disclosed below.

In an example, the defined area is configured in a manner that isconducive to game play, e.g., to accommodate passage of a ball thereinwith a certain degree of skill and/or precision. With reference to FIG.1, in an example, the defined area 16 is rectangular in configurationand the length and width dimension of the rectangular defined area 16may be a function of the playing field scale of dimension, e.g., thediameter of the circular playing field for the example of FIG. 1. In anexample where the playing field is circular and has a diameter ofapproximately 80 yards, the horizontal defined area 16 may have a lengthof approximately 20 to 30 yards and have a width of approximately 10 to20 yards. It is to be understood that the exact size or dimensions ofthe defined area 16 may vary depending on such factors as the size ofthe ball being used, and size and configuration of the playing field,and/or the placement position of the defined area on the playing field.Accordingly, it is to be understood that all such variations of playingfield configuration, playing field size, defined area configuration,defined area placement position on the playing field, and defined areasize and dimensions are to be within the scope of the field game asdisclosed herein.

FIG. 2 illustrates an example playing field 20 for playing the fieldgame as disclosed herein. In this example, the playing field 20 isconfigured having an oval shape with a length dimension that is greaterthan a width dimension. In an example, the playing field is sized toaccommodate game play in a manner that provides competitive fast-pacedplay. In an example, the playing field length may be greater than about30 yards, be from about 40 to 200 yards, or be from about 50 to 120yards. In an example, the length of the playing field is approximately100 yards. In such example, the playing field width is less than thelength, and may be greater than about 20 percent of the length, fromabout 25 to 75 percent of the length, or from about 30 to 50 percent ofthe length. In an example wherein the oval playing field has a length ofapproximately 100 yards, the playing field width may be approximately33.5 yards. In an example, the playing field has a surface 22 formedfrom grass or any of the other materials described above.

The playing field 20 includes a single defined area 24 located thereon.In an example, the defined area 24 is positioned adjacent an end 26 ofthe playing field oriented along a length dimension such that there isan area 28 between the end 26 of the playing field and the defined area24 for game play. Alternatively, the defined area may be placed at theend of the playing field, e.g., so that there is no area behind thedefined area for game play. Alternatively, the defined area may beplaced at or adjacent an end 30 of the playing field oriented along awidth dimension. The defined area may be sized and configure, andconstructed in the manner described above for the example playing fieldillustrated in FIG. 1.

While the playing fields described above and illustrate in FIGS. 1 and 2do not display markings such as lines or the like on the surface of theplaying field, it is to be understood that the playing field may includemarkings or other features for the purpose of facilitating game play.For example, the playing field may include one or more markings orfeatures denoting, e.g., a placement position of the teams on theplaying field at some point of game play. For example, there may bemarkings or lines or other features extending along a center of theplaying field between the end where the defined area is positioned andan opposite end of the playing field, wherein such marking may functionto denote a placement position of each team on opposite sides of themarking at the initiation of game play. Alternatively, there may be twomarkings or lines or other features extending along different locationsof the playing field to denote player position. In an example, themarkings may run parallel with one another and perpendicular to an axisrunning along the playing field between the end where the defined areais positioned and an opposite end of the playing field. In an example,one marking or line may be in front of the defined area and the othermarking or line may be positioned adjacent the opposite end of theplaying field. It is to be understood that all such markings or lines orother features that may be placed on the playing field to denote alocation on the field, e.g., to facilitate game play, are within thescope of the field game as disclosed herein.

FIG. 3 illustrates an example playing field 30 for playing the fieldgame as disclosed herein. In this example, the playing field 30 isconfigured having a rectangular shape with a length dimension that isgreater than a width dimension. In an example, the playing field issized to accommodate game play in a manner that provides competitivefast-paced play. In an example, the playing field length may be greaterthan about 30 yards, be from about 40 to 200 yards, or be from about 50to 120 yards. In an example, the length of the playing field isapproximately 100 yards. In such example, the playing field width isless than the length, and may be greater than about 20 percent of thelength, from about 25 to 75 percent of the length, or from about 30 to50 percent of the length. In an example, the width of the playing fieldis approximately 33.5 yards. In an example, the playing field has asurface 32 formed from grass or any of the other materials describedabove. While certain playing field dimensions have been provided, it isto be understood that playing field dimensions other than thosedescribed above that function to promote and facilitate fast-paced andexciting game play are intended to be within the scope of the field gameas disclosed herein.

In an example, the playing field 30 includes a single defined area 34located thereon. In an example, the defined area 34 is positionedadjacent an end 36 of the playing field oriented along a lengthdimension such that there is an area 38 between the end 36 of theplaying field and the defined area 34 for game play. Alternatively, thedefined area may be placed at the end of the playing field, e.g., wherethere is no area for game play behind the defined area. Alternatively,the defined area may be placed at or adjacent an end 40 of the playingfield oriented along a width dimension. The size, configuration, andconstruction of the defined area 34 may be as described above for theexample playing field illustrated in FIG. 1.

In an example, the playing field 30 includes one or more bleachers orstands 42 that are located off the playing field and positioned alongone or more sides of the playing field. In an example, the stands 42 areconfigured to accommodate spectators for viewing the field game duringgame play. In an example, the stands 42 may be of a conventional typeused for spectator viewing of field sporting events depending on whetherthe field game is being played indoors or outdoors. In the exampleillustrated, the stands 42 are positioned along each of the four sidesof the playing field. Alternatively, the stands may be positioned atonly specific sides of the game field as desired. While stands were notillustrated in the example playing fields of FIGS. 1 and 3, it is to beunderstood that such playing fields may include one or more stands asdisclosed herein positioned appropriately adjacent the playing field toaccommodate spectator viewing.

The playing field 30 illustrated in FIG. 3 includes optional markings orlines 44 and 46 that extend parallel with one another across the widthdimension of the playing field 30. In an example, marking 44 is locatedadjacent an end 48 of the playing field opposite the end 36, and themarking 46 is located adjacent the end 36 of the field a distance infront of the defined area 34. Also shown in FIG. 3 is an arrangement oftwo teams 50 and 52 of players 54 and 56 on the playing field 30. Inexample, a first team 50 is positioned on the playing field behind themarking 46 and adjacent the defined area 34. The first team 50 maycomprise 12 players 54 that are arranged in one or more groups. In anexample, the players 54 may be arranged in three groups of four playerseach, with a first group positioned closest to the marking 46 in frontof the defined area, and with second and third groups on each side ofthe first group and a distance behind the first group. In example, asecond team 52 is positioned on the playing field behind the marking 44and adjacent the end 48. The second team 52 may comprise 12 players 56that are arranged in one or more groups. In an example, the players 56may be arranged in three groups of four players each, with a first grouppositioned closest to the marking 44, and with second and third groupson each side of the first group and a distance behind the first group.

While a particular number of players in each team, a particular groupingof players within each team, and a particular placement position ofgrouped players in each team has been disclosed and illustrated for theexample playing field of FIG. 3, it is to be understood that all of theabove may vary and such variation is intended to be within the scope ofthe field game as disclosed herein. Further, while the playing fieldsillustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2 do not illustrate teams of players thereon,it is to be understood that teams of players as disclosed herein areintended to be included on such playing fields during game play withinthe scope of the field game as disclosed herein.

FIG. 4 illustrates an example playing field 60 for playing the fieldgame as disclosed herein. In this example, the playing field 60 isconfigured having a square shape with a length dimension that isapproximately the same as a width dimension. In an example, the playingfield is sized to accommodate game play in a manner that providescompetitive fast-paced play. In an example, the playing field length maybe greater than about 30 yards, be from about 40 to 200 yards, or befrom about 50 to 120 yards. In an example, the length of the playingfield is approximately 100 yards. In an example, the playing field has asurface 62 formed from grass or any of the other materials describedabove.

The playing field 60 includes a single defined area 64 located thereon.In an example, the defined area 64 is positioned adjacent an end 66 ofthe playing field such that there is an area 68 between the end 36 ofthe playing field and the defined area 34 for game play. Alternatively,the defined area may be placed at the end of the playing field, e.g.,such that no play area exists behind the defined area. The size,configuration, and construction of the defined area 64 may be asdescribed above for the example playing field illustrated in FIG. 1. Itis to be understood that the playing field 60 may include markings orlines, stands or bleachers, and/or an arrangement of teams and teamplayers as disclosed and as illustrated for the example playing field ofFIG. 3.

FIGS. 6A to 6D illustrate still further example playing fields anddefined areas that may be used for playing the field game as disclosedherein. FIG. 6A shows an example playing field 80 that is rectangular inshape and that has a surface 82 formed from one of the materialsdescribed above conducive to game play indoors or outdoors, and in anexample is grass. The playing field has a length of approximately 100yards, and a width of approximately 33.5 yards. The playing fieldincludes a marking 84 extending along the width of the playing fieldmidway between the opposed ends 86 and 88 defining the length of theplaying field. A single defined area 90 is positioned adjacent end 86 ofthe playing field. In this example, the defined area 90 has arectangular configuration, is sized, and is constructed in the mannerdescribed above with reference to the example playing field of FIG. 1.In a particular embodiment, the defined area 90 has a length ofapproximately 28 yards and a width of approximately 20 yards.

In an example, the defined area 90 is level with the remaining portionof the playing field. However, the defined area 90 may be slightlyraised or recessed from the remaining portion of the playing field if sodesired. While the rectangular defined area 90 has been illustrated withits length dimension extending along the width of the playing field, itis to be understood that the rectangular defined area 98 may bepositioned with its width dimension extending along the width of theplaying field, e.g., it may be rotated 90 degrees if desired.

FIG. 6B shows an example playing field 92 that is configured in a mannersimilar to that shown in FIG. 6A and described above, except that thesingle defined area 94 is configured having a square rather than arectangular shape. In an example where the length of the rectangularplaying field is approximately 100 yards and the width of the playingfield is approximately 33.5 yards, the defined area 94 has a length andwidth that are each approximately 20 yards. While the square-shapeddefined area 94 has been illustrated with its sides running parallel torespective playing field length and width dimensions, it is to beunderstood that the square-shaped defined area 94 may be positioneddifferently on the playing field, e.g., rotated by approximately 45degrees or the like (e.g., as shown in FIG. 7B)

FIG. 6C shows an example playing field 96 that is configured in a mannersimilar to that shown in FIG. 6A and described above, except that thesingle defined area 98 is configured having an oval shape. In an examplewhere the length of the rectangular playing field is approximately 100yards and the width of the playing field is approximately 33.5 yards,the defined area 98 has a length that is approximately 28 yards and awidth that is less than the length, e.g., from about 10 to 25 yards.While the oval-shaped defined area 98 has been illustrated with itslength dimension extending along the width of the playing field, it isto be understood that the oval-shaped defined area 98 may be positionedwith its width dimension extending along the width of the playing field,e.g., it may be rotated 90 degrees if desired. While a defined area hasbeen illustrated in the shape of an oval, it is to be understood thatthe defined area may be circular in shape and that such is intended tobe within the scope of the field game as disclosed herein.

FIG. 6D shows an example playing field 100 that is configured in amanner similar to that shown in FIG. 6A and described above, except thatthe single defined area 102 is configured having a triangular shape. Itis to be understood that in such example, the triangular-shaped definedarea 102 may be oriented with a base 104 extending along a widthdimension of the playing field adjacent end 86, and a tip 106 pointingtowards the playing field end 88. In an example, the triangular-shapeddefined area may be an equilateral triangle, an isosceles triangle, or ascalene triangle. In an example, the defined area 102 is an equilateraltriangle. In an example where the length of the rectangular playingfield is approximately 100 yards and the width of the playing field isapproximately 33.5 yards, the defined area 102 has a length along itsbased that is approximately 24 yards. While the triangle-shaped definedarea 102 has been illustrated with particular placement position on theplaying field 100, it is to be understood that the triangle-shapeddefined area 102 may be positioned differently on the playing field,e.g., with a tip oriented towards the playing field end 86 and baseoriented towards the opposite playing field end 88 (as shown in FIG.7D), or may be positioned in any other manner desired.

FIG. 7A to 7D illustrate still further example playing fields anddefined areas that may be used for playing the field game as disclosedherein. FIG. 7A shows an example playing field 110 that is similar tothat illustrated in FIG. 6A and described above, except that the playingfield is oval in shape. In an example, the playing field has a length ofapproximately 100 yards, and a width of approximately 33.5 yards. Theplaying field includes the marking 112 extending along the width of theplaying field midway between opposed ends 114 and 116 defining thelength of the playing field. A single defined area 118 is positionedadjacent end 114 of the playing field, is rectangular in configuration,and is recessed all as described above for the playing field illustratedin FIG. 6A. As noted above, the defined area 118 may be orienteddifferently on the playing field, e.g., rotated 90 degrees or the likeif desired within the scope of the field game as disclosed herein.

FIG. 7B shows an example playing field 120 configured in a mannersimilar to that described above and shown in FIG. 7A, except that thesingle defined area 122 is configured having a square shape. In anexample, the defined area 122 has the same dimensions as the definedarea described above as illustrated in the playing field of FIG. 6B, butthe defined area 122 is oriented with one set of opposed corners runningalong the length of the playing field and another set of opposed cornersrunning along the width of the playing field, i.e., the defined area 122is rotated by approximately 45 degrees relative to the defined area 94in FIG. 6B. It is also to be understood that the defined area 122 may beoriented differently or in a manner similar to that illustrated in FIG.6B.

FIG. 7C shows an example playing field 124 configured in a mannersimilar to that shown in FIG. 7A and described above, except that thedefined area 126 is configured having a semicircular or semiellipticalshape. In an example, the defined area 126 is in the form of asemicircle having a diameter of approximately 24 yards and is orientedon the playing field with the radiused end 128 oriented towards theplaying field end 114. It is to be understood that the defined area 126may be oriented differently on the playing field, e.g., with theradiused end 128 oriented toward the playing field end 116, and thatsuch is within the scope of the field game disclosed herein.

FIG. 7D shows an example playing field 130 configured in a mannersimilar to that shown in FIG. 7A and described above, except that thesingle defined area 132 is configured having a triangular shape asdescribed above for the example playing field shown in FIG. 6D. In anexample, the defined area 132 is in the form of a triangle oriented witha tip 134 oriented facing the playing field end 114, and a base 136oriented facing the playing field end 116. It is to be understood thatthe defined area 132 may be oriented differently on the playing field,e.g., with the tip 134 oriented toward the playing field end 116, andthat all such different orientations are intended to be within the scopeof the field game disclosed herein.

While different shapes of playing fields as combined with differentconfigurations of defined areas and different orientations of definedareas on the playing field have been described above and illustrated inFIGS. 6A to 6D, and 7A to 7D, it is to be understood that the definedareas as disclosed may be combined with the different shapes of playingfields as illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 4, and with different shapes ofplaying fields not illustrated, Further, while particular shapes ofdefined areas and placement orientations of the same on playing fieldshave been disclosed and illustrated, it is to be understood that othershapes of defined areas not specifically illustrated are intended to bewithin the scope of field games as disclosed herein as combined withdifferently configured playing fields and located thereon in differentplacement orientations.

FIG. 8A to 8C illustrate different types of defined areas that may beused with playing fields in accordance with the field game as disclosedherein. FIG. 8 illustrates an example playing field 140 as describedabove (e.g., with reference to FIG. 6A) comprising a defined area 142configured in the form of a construction extending above a surface ofplaying field. In an example, the defined area 142 is in the form of aconstruction having a single opening 144 that is oriented towards an end146 of the playing field opposite an end 148 adjacent its placementposition. In this example, the construction includes opposed sides 150and a back 152 that are each closed to that one or more balls can enterthe defined area only though the opening 144. In an example, the sides150 and back 152 are closed by a netting material or the like. Thedimensions of the defined area 142 can and will vary for the purpose ofensuring competitive game play. In an example, where the playing fielddimensions is as disclosed above for FIG. 6A, the defined area may havea width of approximately 6 yards, a height of approximately 2 yards, anda depth of approximately 1 yard, though it is understood that definedareas configured in this matter may be sized differently within thescope of the field game as disclosed herein.

FIG. 8B illustrates an example playing field 160 as described above(e.g., with reference to FIG. 6A) comprising a defined area 162configured in the form of a construction extending above a surface ofplaying field similar to that disclose above and illustrated in FIG. 8A,except that the size of the defined area 162 is different. Specifically,the defined area 162 is sized smaller than that described above for FIG.8A, having a width of approximately 3 yards, a height of approximately 2yards, and a depth of approximately 1 yard, though it is understood thatdefined areas configured in this matter may be sized differently withinthe scope of the field game as disclosed herein. FIG. 8C illustrates anexample playing field 170 as described above (e.g., with reference toFIG. 6A) comprising a defined area 172 configured in the form of markingelements 174 that extend upwardly a distance from a surface of theplaying field, wherein the placement position of the elements on theplaying field denote the defined area 172. In this example, ballplacement into the area defined by the four marking elements may bepermitted, e.g., to result in a score, from all sides or only designatedsides depending on the field game rules of play. In an example, fourelements 174 may be used, but it is to be understood that any number ofelements may be used for the purpose of designating a particulargeometry or form of the defined area, e.g., round, oval, rectangular,square, triangular, semicircular, and the like. In the exampleillustrated, the marking elements may be spaced to provide a width ofapproximately 6 yards, a depth of approximately 1 yard, and to provide aheight above the playing field surface of approximately 2 yards. Whileparticular dimensions of marking elements illustrated in FIG. 8C havebeen provided, it is understood that such dimensions may vary and bewithin the scope of the field game as disclosed herein.

FIGS. 9A to 9F illustrate different types of marking elements that mayserve to identify or designate the defined area, or that may be used todesignate or mark certain areas of the playing field as used with thefield game as disclosed herein. FIG. 9A illustrates marking elements inthe form of free-standing flag elements 180 that may be used on theplaying field for purposes of designating the defined area (as discussedabove with reference to FIG. 8C). FIG. 9B illustrates another type ofmarking elements in the form of vertical elements 182 that may be madefrom a foam materials or the like and used on the playing field forpurposes of designating the defined area (as discussed above withreference to FIG. 8C). FIG. 9C illustrates a variety of differentlysized and configured marking elements in the form of free-standingvertical elements 184 that may be used on the playing field for purposesof designating the defined area (as discussed above with reference toFIG. 8C). FIG. 9D illustrates a still other type of marking element inthe form of a vertical element 186 configured for insertion into theplaying field that may be used to designate the defined area (asdiscussed above with reference to FIG. 8C). FIG. 9E illustrates a stillother type of marking element in the form of vertical elements 188having a short conical shape that may sit on the playing field forpurposes of designating the defined area (as discussed above withreference to FIG. 8C). FIG. 9F illustrates a marking device 190configured to form a marking line 192 or the like, e.g., by dispensing amarking material such as chalk or the like, on the surface of theplaying field that may be used on the playing field for purposes ofdesignating the defined area (as discussed above with reference to FIG.8C). It is to be understood that each of the marking elements describedabove and illustrated in FIGS. 9A to 9E may also be used to designate anarea on the playing field in addition to or other than the defined area,e.g., to mark a center line or provide other marking on the playingfield such as those illustrate in FIG. 3. It is also to be understoodthat these are but a few examples of marking elements that may be usedin conjunction with the playing field as disclosed herein, and thatother marking elements not specifically illustrated but useful for thesame purpose or function are intended to be within the scope of thefield game as disclosed herein.

FIG. 5 illustrates an example ball 70 that may be used in playing thefield game as disclosed herein. In an example, the ball 70 may or maynot be air filled, and in an example is an air-filled ball. In anexample, the ball may include an air bladder or the like formed formconventional material such as rubber or the like. In an example, theball has an outside surface formed from a material that is rigid anddurable for game play. In an example, it the ball may have an exteriorsurface that is formed from leather or the like. In an exampleembodiment the ball may have a variety of different configurations thatmay facilitate holding, catching, grasping, gripping, kicking, and/orthrowing of the ball during game play. In an example, the ball isconfigured having a round shape.

The ball may include surface features disposed along the exteriorsurface to facilitate holding, grasping and throwing the ball by a gameplayer. The surface features may be uniformly or arbitrarily disposedalong ball exterior surface. In an example, the surface features may beprovided in the form of recessed regions or ridges 72 that aredistributed along the outside surface. In an example, as illustrated inFIG. 5, the ridges are disturbed along the exterior surface in a mannergiving rise to a plurality of triangular sections as defined by theridges 72. Configured in this manner, the ridges 72 operate to enhance aplayer's ability to catch, grip, grasp, hold, and/or throw the ballduring game play. It is to be understood that while one example balluseful for playing the field game has been disclosed and illustrated,other types of balls that may be configured differently yet provide asimilar function as described above are intended to be within the scopeof the field game and equipment used therewith as described herein.

In an example, the ball used for playing the field game as discloseherein is sized to facilitate being held, gripped, grasped, kickedand/or thrown by a player of the game during game play for the purposeof holding and running, throwing or passing to teammates, and catching.In an example, the ball may have a diameter of greater than about 2inches, from about 3 to 15 inches, and from about 4 to 10 inches. In anexample, the ball has a diameter of approximately 5.5 inches. It is tobe understood that while particular ball dimensions have been provided,that balls sized differently while providing a similar function asdescribed above are intended to be within the scope of the field gameand equipment used therewith as described herein.

Other equipment that may be used by player of the field game asdisclosed herein include protective player equipment such as helmets,light pads for shoulders, shins, knees, ankles, cups, mouth guards, andthe like. In an example, the protective gear is lighter and less bulkythat than that worn to play American football. In an example, helmetsworn for game play more closely resemble American football helmets ofthe 19^(th) century. In an example, the wearing of such protective gearby a player is mandatory. In an example, player uniform design, e.g.,color, pattern, and/or type may be determined by each player team.Alternatively, player uniform design may be determined by league rulesif leagues are formed and such league rules are developed.

In an example, the field game as disclosed herein makes use of more thanone ball during game play. In an example, game play begins with usingtwo or more balls, and in a particular example, game play begins withusing three balls. In an example, each of the balls is identicallyconfigured. Two teams of 12 players each begin on opposite baselines ofthe playing field or battlefield. In an example, reference is made toFIG. 3 regarding the relative location of the players of each team atthe beginning of the game. The team 50 that is located adjacent thedefined region 34 or pill box is the defending team, and the other team52 that is located at the opposite end of the playing field is theoffending or attacking team. In an example, the relative placementposition of the two teams may be determined before the start of the gameby a coin toss.

Once the two teams are positioned on the playing field, game play isinitiated by a kickoff where players of the defending team 50 kick orpunt the balls simultaneously into the territory or region of theplaying field occupied by the offending team 52. In an example, it isdesired that the defending team 50 kicks the balls deep into theoffending team's territory. The teams then charge towards each other,meeting on the playing field, e.g., at or near a middle region of theplaying field. The defending team 50 has the objective of causing theoffensive team 52 to lose possession of the balls and prevent theoffending team from placing one or more of the balls in the definedregion. The offending team has the objective of moving the ballsdownfield by running with the balls, handing, kicking or throwing theballs to another teammate without losing possession, and ultimatelyhaving one or more offending players with possession of one or more ofthe respective balls in the defined area to thereby score, i.e., a scoreis made when an offending player has controlled possession of a ball intheir hands within the defined area. The offending team may score by anoffending player catching the ball (via pass or kick) while in thedefined area, or by an offending player carrying the ball into thedefined area. The offending team may move in any manner or direction onthe playing field, and may use any combination of throws, handoffs,runs, or kicks to move the ball on the playing field. The offending teamloses possession of a ball if the defending team is able to fully graspthe ball and control it, for example by intercepting a handoff, throw,or kick. Possession of a ball by the offending team may also be lost ifa ball is knocked from or otherwise taken from an offending team player,if a ball is loose and a defending team player lands on the ball. Oncepossession of a ball is lost by the offending team, the ball isconsidered dead and is out of play for the reminder of a skirmish ofgame play with the other balls remaining in play. Possession of a ballis also lost if the ball goes off of the playing field and out of play.

During game play it is intended that defending team players andoffending team players be very physical and may each shove, block, trip,pick, screen, grab, pile on, roughhouse, and shove other players withone or both hands. In an example, there is to be no tackling, no hitsabove the neck, and no intentional kicking. There may be one or morereferees used during game play, and in an example there may be two tofour referees. There are penalties that may be assessed during gameplay. In an example, there are two types of penalties that may beassessed for tackling, kicking, or hits above the neck. If the refereeassesses that the act was of a severe degree, the offending player orplayers may be removed from the game, the offending player or playersmay be fined, and/or the offending player or players may be removed orbanned from participating in one or more future games. League officialsrule on an individual basis. If the referee assesses that the act was ofa less severe degree, the offending player or players may receive a timepenalty during which the offending player or players do not play in thegame. In an example embodiment, the duration of a time penalty may befrom 5 minutes to 10 minutes or the like. During a time penalty, theoffending player or players must leave the playing field and play of thegame continues with the remaining number of players on the offendingplayer or offending player's team, i.e., the team with the offendingplayer or offending players is not permitted to substitute in otherplayers to make the team whole in terms of the number of team player.

In an example, a score occurs during game play when the offending teammanages to successfully move a ball downfield and an offending playerhave control of the ball with their hands in the defined area, e.g., byrunning the ball into the defined area or by catching the ball in thedefined area. In an example, each score results in one or more pointsand, in a particular example, each score results in an award of onepoint. Once all three balls are either lost (out of possession or offthe playing field) or scored (placed into the defined area) the skirmishbetween the two teams is over and the teams then switch sides on theplaying field. During a skirmish the defending team does not have theobjective of scoring, its only objective is to prevent the offendingteam from scoring. In an example, there are no time-outs or otherstoppage of play during a skirmish, which results in substantiallyconstant action during a skirmish.

After a skirmish has ended, the teams have a defined time to return tothe playing field in the switched positions. In an example, the definedtime may be limited for the purpose of producing near-constant actionand game play. In an example, the defined time may be approximately 15seconds for the teams to take their respective switched positions on thegame field before the new defending team (formally the offending team inthe preceding skirmish) kicks or punts the balls to the new offendingteam (formally the defending team in the proceeding skirmish) to start anew skirmish. If the teams are not ready within the 15 seconds there maybe a penalty accessed for the team not ready, e.g., a point or more maybe deducted from the late team's score. Alternatively, instead of apenalty, the team that is ready within the designated time may have theadvantage of starting play, thereby providing an advantage in game play.While a particular defined time between skirmishes has been describedabove, it is to be understood that the particular time may vary whilemaintaining the function of creating near-constant game play action, andthat such is intended to be within the scope of the scope of the fieldgame as disclosed herein.

A full game of the field game as disclosed herein comprises two gameplay periods that are referred to as battles. Each battle lasts for adefined period and may encompass one or more skirmishes. In an example,each battle may last for approximately 30 minutes. The number ofskirmishes within each battle can and will vary depending on a number ofgame play factors. While a typical skirmish may last a few minutes,theoretically one skirmish could last an entire battle, i.e., where asingle skirmish lasts the entire 30 minutes. While a particular definedtime for each battle has been described above, it is to be understoodthat the particular time may vary while maintaining the function ofcreating near-constant game play action, and that such is intended to bewithin the scope of the scope of the field game as disclosed herein. Inan example, during each battle the game clock, e.g., of 30 minutes,never stops. In an example, there are no breaks, no pauses, no huddles,no time-outs, or the like. The game clock may only be stopped in theevent of serious player injury, at the sole discretion of the game'sreferee. At the end of the 30-minute game clock for a battle, game playof a skirmish ends and does not continue.

In an example, there is a defined break period between each of the twobattles. In an example, for the purposes of maintaining near constantaction, there is only one break period and the time for the break periodis brief. In an example, the break period between the two battles may beapproximately 5 minutes. After the first battle and the defined break,the second battle begins during which event the teams switch positionson the playing field from the positions they took at the beginning ofthe first battle regardless of respective team positions at the stoppageor end of the last skirmish in the first battle. While a particulardefined time between battles has been described above, it is to beunderstood that the particular time may vary while maintaining thefunction of creating near-constant game play action, and that such isintended to be within the scope of the scope of the field game asdisclosed herein. Also, while an example has been described comprisingtwo battles, it is to be understood that variations including only oneor more than two battles are intended to be within the scope of thefield game as disclosed herein. In an example, a winning team of thefield game as disclosed herein is determined based on the team that hasthe highest score at the end of the two battles.

The field game as disclosed herein is specifically configured comprisinga playing field, a defined area for receiving placement of a balltherein, and game play rules and instructions that are all developed forthe purpose of promoting high-energy, fast-paced, and aggressive gameplay to thereby increase the action level and excitement associated withplaying and watching the game.

Although but a few example playing fields, game play equipment, and gameplay rules and instructions have been described in detail above, thoseskilled in the art will readily appreciate that many modifications arepossible in the example embodiments without materially departing fromthe field game as disclosed herein. Accordingly, all such modificationsare intended to be included within the scope of this disclosure asdefined in the following claims. In the claims, means-plus-functionclauses are intended to cover the structures described herein asperforming the recited function and not only structural equivalents, butalso equivalent structures. Thus, although a nail and a screw may not bestructural equivalents in that a nail employs a cylindrical surface tosecure wooden parts together, whereas a screw employs a helical surface,in the environment of fastening wooden parts, a nail and a screw may beequivalent structures. It is the express intention of the applicant notto invoke means plus function type claiming for any limitations of anyof the claims herein, except for those in which the claim expressly usesthe words ‘means for’ together with an associated function.

What is claimed is:
 1. A game comprising: a playing field comprising adefined area at only one end of the playing field and a remaining areaaway from the defined area, the defined area configured to accommodate aplayer having possession of a ball therein; and a first team of playersthat during game play operate to try to prevent a second team of playershaving possession of the ball to place a second team player inpossession of the ball in the defined area; wherein upon commencement ofthe game there are one or more balls placed into play and in possessionby the second team.
 2. The game as recited in claim 1, wherein uponcommencement of the game the first team of players are positioned on afirst side of the playing field including the defined area, and thesecond team of players is positioned on a second side of the fieldopposite the first side.
 3. The game as recited in claim 1, wherein thedefined area comprises an enclosure that prevents entry into the definedarea from at least one direction of the playing field.
 4. The game asrecited in claim 1, wherein the defined area is accessible from allsides on the playing field.
 5. The game as recited in claim 1, whereinthe defined area has a rectangular configuration as viewed downwardlyfrom an elevation above the defined area.
 6. The game as recited inclaim 1, wherein the playing field has a circular shape.
 7. The game asrecited in claim 1, wherein the playing field has a square shape.
 8. Thegame as recited in claim 1, wherein the playing field has an oval shape.9. The game as recited in claim 1, wherein the playing field has arectangular shape.
 10. The game as recited in claim 1, wherein the ballis round and comprises an outside surface having a plurality of surfacefeatures configured to enable one to grasp or throw the ball during gameplay.
 11. A method of playing a game comprising: placing a first team ofplayers at a first end of a playing field; and placing a second team ofplayers at a second end of the playing field, wherein the second end ofthe playing field includes a defined area configured to accommodateplacement of a player having possession of a ball therein, wherein theplaying field includes only one defined area; wherein during game playthe first team of players are in possession of one or more balls withthe objective of moving the one or more balls to the second end of theplaying field to place a player from the first team in possession withone of the balls into the defined area, wherein during game play thesecond team of players engages the first team with the objective ofpreventing the first team from placing a player from the first team inpossession with one of the balls into the defined area.
 12. The methodas recited in claim 10, wherein the game is played with approximatelythree balls in the possession of the first team.
 13. The method asrecited in claim 10, wherein the second team is initially in possessionof the one or more balls and transfers the one or more balls to thefirst team to begin game play.
 14. The method as recited in claim 13,wherein the second team moves towards the first end of the field toengage the second team after initiating transfer of the one or moreballs.
 15. The method as recited in claim 10, wherein the during gameplay the first team moves the one or more balls in any manner betweenmembers of the first team, and moves the one or more balls in anydirection on the field, and wherein possession of any of the one or moreballs by the first team is lost when a member of the first team fails tomaintain control of such any of the one or more balls.
 16. The method asrecited in claim 10, wherein once all of the one or more balls in playare either lost control of by the first team and/or placed in thedefined area by the first team, the first and second teams of playersswitch sides on the playing field and the game starts again with thesecond team of players having the objective of placing one or moresecond team players having possession of the one or more balls into thedefined area and the first team of players having the objective ofpreventing the second team of players from placing one or more secondteam players having possession of the one or more balls into the definedarea.
 17. The method as recited in claim 16, wherein game play continueswith the first and second teams switching sides one or more times afterlosing possession of the one or more balls and/or placing the one ormore balls in the defined area for a defined period of time.
 18. Themethod as recited in claim 17, wherein after the defined period of timea winning team of the first team of players and the second team ofplayers is decided based on a highest score that is associated with atotal number of balls placed in the defined area by the first team ofplayers and second team of players.
 19. The method as recited in claim18, wherein each ball placed in the defined area counts as one point.20. The method as recited in claim 17, wherein there are two definedperiods of time with a time break in between the two defined periods,wherein the first defined period begins with the start of game play, andwherein for the second defined period the second team of players isinitially positioned at the first end of the field with the objective ofmoving the one or more balls to the second end of the field and placingone or more second team players having possession of the one or moreballs in the defined area, and the first team of players are initiallypositioned at the second end of the field with the objective ofpreventing the second team from placing one or more second team playershaving possession of the one or more balls in the defined area.